Westport hydrogen prototype completes trial run in Spain

Oct. 11, 2023
Delivery truck trial helps Westport pave way for hydrogen fuel.

Westport Fuel Systems successfully completed a heavy transport demonstration with its H2 HPDI fuel system powering a prototype truck hauling a refrigerated trailer in Madrid, Spain. The demo marks the first of its kind in Spain, representing an important step forward in the decarbonization of heavy transport for the country, according to Westport.

Content provided by Westport Fuel Systems.

The collaboration between Westport and key transportation and energy partners includes:

  • Disfirmur SL, a transport and logistics company performing refrigerated goods transportation services
  • Enagas’ Subsidiary Scale Gas, an energy infrastructure company, responsible for refueling the vehicle at its Madrid hydrogen refueling station
  • Versallis Tech Services, a hydrogen and renewable energy services consulting firm, providing technical support and coordination of the operation

The demo was made possible by Mercadona, a Spanish supermarket chain, who successfully implemented the test by carrying out a distribution service in Madrid and thus contributing to the progress towards more sustainable logistics.

“Westport’s H2 HPDI fuel system, which powers an internal combustion engine, represents a practical solution that offers the sustainability needed to support climate neutrality in the heavy transport sector,” said Anders Johansson, VP of heavy duty OEMs for Westport, in a statement. “It is inspiring to see our H2 HPDI prototype truck being tested by a major industry player, demonstrating the efficient delivery of fresh products to a supermarket logistics center.”

Juan J. Sanchez, CEO of Disfrimur, said:

“We unquestionably need affordable heavy-duty hydrogen fueled trucks to help our customers like Mercadona achieve their transport decarbonization goals,” said Juan J. Sanchez, CEO of Disfrimur, in a statement. “Trucks equipped with Westport’s H2 HPDI fuel system are the solution to our needs today; a technology that is affordable and fits our operational needs, powered by hydrogen. We believe that truck manufacturers should offer this type of high efficiency, hydrogen-fueled heavy-duty vehicle.”

Said Miguel A. Castro Perez, general manager of mobility at Scale Gas, in a statement:

“Thanks to this trial, in which we have contributed with our experience in small scale infrastructure for mobility, we have taken another step forward in our commitment to decarbonize the transport sector, and incorporate hydrogen into our portfolio of infrastructure solutions for the heavy-duty transport sector.”